Boss Ruben Amorim contends that altering Man Utd's tactical system due to external scrutiny would have signaled "the end" for him.
In a first against Newcastle, Amorim moved away from his usual three-at-the-back setup with wing-backs and opted to use an standard back four shielded by two holding midfielders.
Amorim acknowledged this at times became a six-man defensive block in the latter phase as his squad held on for a win - securing just their second shutout of the campaign.
While he once notably remarked that even the Pope could compel him to tweak his system, Amorim maintains the option to play with alternative formations has always been part of his plan.
However, he stresses he could only alter the tactics when his team were performing well enough - or else it would appear as if he was bowing to external pressure.
"When I arrived here last season, I recognized perhaps I didn't possess the players to play well in that formation, but it was the beginning of a process," he stated.
"We were trying to establish an style. Currently is a separate time. We don't have a lot of personnel, and we have to be flexible, so they understand why we are making changes.
"This isn't because of the pressure of the media, or the fans.
"Whenever you discuss altering the formation repeatedly, I cannot change because the players will believe I'm altering things because of external voices and I believe that is the downfall for the coach.
"Once we are performing strongly in our system, that is the opportunity to change.
"We are going to grow into a stronger squad because when all the players return, we are not intending to employ three defenders all the time."
Availability Issues Loom Large
With only two victories in eight games before beating Newcastle, it is debatable whether Amorim is accurate to say his side have been playing well.
He is, nonetheless, operating with a depleted squad, with seven senior players already confirmed absent for the upcoming fixture against winless Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That total will grow if playmaker Mason Mount fails to shake off the knock that led to his withdrawal from the Newcastle game at half-time.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes is one of those who will miss the Wolves clash, even though he is reportedly pushing his manager to let him to make a comeback following his muscle problem.
"Fernandes is already telling me he has to practice," said Amorim. "But there is no chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that."
The Captain's Influence Endures
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star will probably continue to be deeply engaged, as whereas most unavailable players view matches from the stands, Fernandes was seen keeping a close eye on the warm-ups from the entrance of the tunnel before the Newcastle game.
Amorim anticipates his leader to continue providing insight.
"He is a natural leader," he declared. "He cannot be the type of player that when he is not playing, he's not talking and speaking. He's always communicating. That is the reason he's the captain.
"There are bad things sometimes - his mannerisms he gesticulates - but he has a lot of positive qualities. After he finishes treatment, he goes to observe the other guys practicing. There are a many aspects you don't see.
"I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a born leader. The guy is a leader."
Recovery Schedule for Key Personnel
While the exact date for Fernandes' return - and that of fellow injured stars like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire - is unknown, before the conclusion of January, United will see the return of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo from international duty.
